The University of San Francisco: Career Services Center
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dons careers

Job Search Strategies

Overview of Job Search Process

  • Develop a goal/objective
  • Write a resume
  • Research companies
  • Find job leads
  • Conduct networking
  • Apply for positions that interest you
  • Interview with employers
  • Negotiate salary

    • Developing a Goal or Objective

  • Conduct self assessment
  • Consider your interests, skills, personality, and values.
  • Talk with a CSC Counselor and/or take a career exploration test. 
  • Make a list of every job/career that has ever interested you (from the earliest age) and why; look for patterns
  • Consult career planning books such as What Color is Your Parachute?
  • Investigate various fields by reading occupational info and talking with people in the fields

    • Writing a Resume and Developing Cover Letters

  • Use CSC’s Job & Internship Resource Guide for information on writing resumes and cover letters
  • Bring your resume and cover letter to the Career Center to receive feedback from a counselor during drop-in sessions
  • Revise and create targeted versions for different types of jobs, if necessary
  • Create electronic versions of your resume/cover letter, make sure subject line addresses the position you’re applying for/your relevant background

    • How to Research Companies

  • Visit company profiles (find through Google, Yahoo, Book of Lists, etc.)
  • Our Career Research page has links to various websites that can help you research!
  • Use CSC Resources Library on 5th floor
  • Visit Gleeson library
  • Talk with current and former employees of the company

    • Where to Find Job Leads

  • Use CSC Resources such as: DonsCareers, On Campus/Mock Interviews, Company presentations
  • CSC Career and Internship Fair and Non-Profit Expo
  • Utilize websites such as careerbuilder.com, usajobs.gov, craigslist.org
  • Trade/professional association publications, websites, events
  • Industry-specific career fairs
  • Employment agencies/recruiters
  • Newspapers
  • Social Networking such as LinkedIn

    • Use the Power of Networking

  • Most jobs are found this way (60-70%)
  • Let everyone know you’re looking (friends, family, professors, classmates, alumni)
  • Brainstorm 5 contacts today
  • Visit our Networking page with career-specific tips to help you!

    • How to Network

  • Develop a 1-2 minute introduction to communicate your goals/objectives
  • Example: "Hello, my name is _____". (Chitchat about weather, event you’re attending, current events, etc.) “Most recently I have been (in what industry or at what school, etc.). My interests are strongest in _______, so now I’m looking for information about_______ and would like to meet people who_______. Do you know anyone you think I should talk to to get the information I need?"
  • Network with students and alumni on the Dons Helping Dons LinkedIn page (more info about this program here)

    • Applying for Jobs that Interest You

  • Include targeted resume and cover letter
  • Submit them in company’s preferred format (email, mail, fax)
  • Be aware of formatting differences
  • Follow up with call or email in 1 to 2 weeks if you haven’t received a response – restate your interest

    • Job Interviewing

  • Prepare by researching company
  • Practice by doing a videotaped mock interview at CSC or have a friend ask you sample questions
  • Know 3 of the traits, skills, and characteristics that make you an excellent candidate for this job
  • Dress professionally
  • Communicate your enthusiasm about the job – have questions ready for interviewer
  • Bring paper, pen, and extra copies of resume
  • Have a career portfolio if appropriate
  • Be friendly - “People hire people they like.”
  • Ask about next steps before you leave
  • Follow up with a prompt thank you note

    • Use PAR in the Interview Process

  • Use “PAR” to answer questions (Problem / Action / Result)
  • Be specific & support your claim!
  • e.g. “One of my strengths is my ability to adapt easily and effectively to changing situations. When I worked at the front desk of a residence hall, I encountered many instances in which I had to make quick decisions. For example…(give specific P-A-R)

    • Negotiating Salary

    Do:

  • Research salary ranges
  • Have a realistic budget
  • Be prepared to explain why you're worth the $$

    • Don't:

  • Mention salary/benefits in the 1st interview!
  • Be the first to say a number

    • Job Search Pointers

  • Develop a job search strategy that works for you!
  • Think about how much time you have to devote to your search
  • Make schedule of “to do’s” & break it down into manageable parts (weekly and daily tasks)
  • Use someone you know as an example to inspire you
  • Make sure you have a support system (family, friends, current employer, etc.)
  • Visit CSC along the way

    • Where to Find More Info

  • Career Services has handouts, resources, and books on the following topics:
  • Resumes
  • Cover letters
  • Researching occupations and employers
  • Informational interviews
  • Job interviews
  • Salary negotiation
  • Evaluating job opportunities
  • And more- just ask!